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'It kind of makes you not want to live here anymore': West Toledoans react to rise in violence

In 2022, west Toledo has seen 13 of the city's 46 homicides. As of late September, the city has not placed violence interrupters in West Toledo.

TOLEDO, Ohio — In 2022, west Toledo has seen a jump in violent crime and homicides with 13 of the city's 46 homicides.

WTOL 11 spoke with residents watching a town change before their eyes. Most agree the rise in violence is sad and frustrating but expressed a variety of ideas to help fix it.

Denon Wilson said since moving to Toledo from Detroit earlier this year, he's noticed his neighbors' concerns about rising crime.

"Overall, it's been a good move, but I do know that some other neighbors are having some concerns," Wilson said. "It's shocking for people that have been here a long time."

The rise in violent crime is making young people like Reyona Patrick take notice.

"I've seen a lot of people my age specifically pass away," she said. "Throughout the years, people I've known have passed away. It's hard."

Patrick said the number of young people losing their lives to gun violence has made her re-examine living in Toledo.

"It kind of makes you not want to live here anymore," Patrick said.

Several young people have been victims of homicide in west Toledo, including 18-year-old Tavon Fields, 16-year-old Neiko McIntyre and 7-month-old Desire Hughes.

Resident Don Spiegel said putting violence interrupters in west Toledo could help, but claims more police would solve the problem.

"It's certainly part of the solution, but you need a strong police presence," he said.

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Wilson said other areas like Detroit have seen worse crime rates, and he doesn't let it affect his day-to-day life.

"I'm used to a higher volume of things like this, and I know how to carry myself," Wilson said. "I don't really fear for anything when I go out in Toledo. I've gotten to know areas where not to go."

As of late September, the city has not placed violence interrupters in West Toledo. A source with knowledge of the violence interrupter program said if the community wants the interrupters' presence, they need to speak with the city.

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